IRIAF launches pistachio variety identification service

The Regional Institute for Agricultural and Forestry Research and Development of Castilla-La Mancha (IRIAF) has launched a new genetic identification service for pistachio varieties (Pistacia vera L.). Using molecular markers, the service allows farmers, nurseries, and companies to verify the varietal identity of plant material, enhancing traceability for this growing crop in the region.

Starting September 15, interested parties can request analyses through the Viticulture and Enology Station of Alcázar de San Juan. The service is the result of several years of research by the IVICAM-IRIAF Molecular Biology Laboratory, which optimized a panel of 16 microsatellite molecular markers for genetic characterization. A reference database was also developed using plant material from the National Collection of pistachio varieties maintained by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.